What is the minimum number of Operating Managers a Chatime franchisee must appoint?
Chatime Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
(2) Operating Manager.
Franchisee will appoint at least one "Operating Manager".
The Managing Owner and Operating Manager may be the same person.
Franchisee's Operating Manager may but need not be an owner of your business.
You will ensure that the day-to-day operation of the Franchised Business is always actively managed by an Operating Manager who has attended and successfully completed such training as we may require from time to time.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 58–262)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Chatime's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is required to appoint at least one Operating Manager for their Chatime store. The Operating Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of the franchised business and must have completed the training that Chatime requires.
The Managing Owner and the Operating Manager can be the same person. The Managing Owner must hold an equity interest in the business and be approved by Chatime. While the Operating Manager does not need to be an owner, they must actively manage the store and devote their full time and attention to the business, working at least 38 hours per week, as specified in the Operations Manual.
This requirement ensures that each Chatime location has dedicated on-site management to maintain operational standards and customer service levels. The franchisee must ensure the Operating Manager does not engage in other business activities that could conflict with their responsibilities to the Chatime store. If the designated manager fails to complete training or ceases to act in their role, the franchisee is responsible for appointing and training a qualified replacement within 30 days, potentially at the franchisee's expense.